Working out how to tell your job you’re going to rehab can be challenging, but deciding to get help for addiction is a step worth taking. It can seem scary to bring up this topic with your employer, but the right plan can help you start your recovery journey confidently.
This guide shows you how to take time off work for rehab and helps you understand your rights.
For assistance with work arrangements and rehab treatment covered by insurance, call our friendly recovery specialists at 866.330.9449.
What to Tell Work When You Go to Rehab
When it’s time to talk to your boss about going to rehab, here are some simple tips to help you:
- Express your commitment to your job: Let your boss know how much you want to keep working and doing well.
- Explain that you require medical treatment: Tell your boss you have a medical issue that requires treatment. This helps them understand that your health must come first.
- Be honest about your situation: You may need to share details about your condition. Sometimes, employers ask for a medical note to confirm what you’re going through.
- Mention FMLA: If you know you can use FMLA (Family and Medical Leave Act) for rehab, tell your boss. This shows you’ve done your homework and are serious about your recovery – more on this below.
- Discuss your work performance: If you’ve been struggling at work because of your condition, you can mention that you’re looking forward to recovering and returning to your normal performance level.
- Offer flexible solutions: Suggest an intensive outpatient program if your boss worries about you being away from work. This can be a way to get help while still being part of the workplace.
Remember, many employers will appreciate your honesty and willingness to improve yourself. They often want to support you in getting better.
How to Use FMLA for Rehab
FMLA lets you take time off work for medical reasons without losing your job. Here’s how you can use FMLA for rehab:
Check if you qualify
Make sure you and your workplace qualify for FMLA. You must have worked there for at least a year and your workplace must have 50 or more employees.
Talk to your HR department
Go to your HR department and tell them you need to use FMLA. They can give you the forms you need to fill out.
Get a doctor’s note
You will need a note from your doctor saying that you need medical treatment for your condition. This helps prove that your leave is for a serious health reason.
Fill out the forms
Complete the FMLA forms and include your doctor’s note. Make sure to follow all the steps your HR department tells you.
Keep in touch
While you’re on leave, keep in touch with your workplace. Let them know how you’re doing and when you expect to return. Using FMLA means your job will be waiting for you when you’re ready to return after rehab.
Will My Boss Know if I Go to Rehab?
If you decide to go to rehab, you might wonder if your boss will find out. Generally, the details about why you are taking leave are private. You don’t have to tell your boss exactly why you need time off if you don’t want to.
You might need to give a note from your doctor to use FMLA or other leave, but it doesn’t have to say specifically that it’s for rehab. It can just state that you need medical treatment.
It’s a good idea to talk to your human resources department. They can help keep things confidential and guide you on what information you need to share.
Remember, your health is important, and getting help is a brave step. You can keep details private and still arrange the time off you need for rehab.
Get Insurance-Covered Rehab at Renaissance Recovery
Addiction can affect anyone, regardless of background. If you need help for you or someone you care about, reach out to Renaissance Recovery. We have addiction treatment centers in California and Florida dedicated to your recovery.
We offer outpatient treatment for all types of addictions and mental health conditions at our beachside rehabs. This lets you get the help you need without needing to leave behind your daily commitments. We also have more intense programs for anyone who requires extra support. We can also involve family members in the treatment process.
If you’re worried about the cost of addiction treatment, most major health insurance plans cover at least part of the costs. Call Renaissance any time and we can help you check your insurance coverage quickly and easily.
All Renaissance treatment programs are personalized and include therapies such as:
- Talk therapy like CBT or DBT
- Medications
- Holistic treatments
- Group therapy
- Family therapy
- One-on-one counseling
- Aftercare
Call our recovery specialists to begin addiction treatment today at 866.330.9449.
